You’ve heard all about Cabot Cape Breton, the world-class golf courses, and the scenery, but the hidden secret is the town of Inverness. On my very first trip to the town, having never been there, it still somehow felt like I had arrived home. There is something magical about it, that you won’t fully understand unless you immerse yourself in everything Inverness has to offer. In this article, we uncover the top 6 activities in Inverness, when you aren’t on the course.
1. Go to the Beach and Boardwalk
Inverness boasts one of the best beaches on Cape Breton Island. The water from mid-June to late August is even warm enough to swim. If the weather isn’t quite right, it’s still a great place to walk or sit and decompress.
With the golfcourse on one side and the ocean on the other, there’s no place more peaceful than the boardwalk. You can find the board walk at the end of Beach Road Number 1 or locate the unmarked access on the other end of town in my article “How to Walk Inverness Beach in a Circut”.
2. Tour the Whisky Distillery
For a real taste of Scotland, visit the Glenora Distillery for a tour and tasting. Tours are available daily May-October every hour on the hour from 9-5. No appointment is necessary and it’s only $7 per person.
However, for the real immersive experience you’ll want to book a Backstage Pass, which includes a private tour of the whisky warehouse, a sample drawn right from the barrel and a tutored tasting. These passes are well worth the $125 per person price tag and must be booked in advance.
3. Take in a Sunset
Even though Cape Breton is on the East Coast of Canada, Inverness actually faces West. Which means, the sun sets right over the ocean. So grab a drink, find a comfy spot and enjoy!
Some of our fave spots include the patio at the Cabot Links course and the front porch of our very own Cabot Cottage.
4. Check out some Live Music
Inverness is located on what is called the musical coast and for good reason. This area is known for its music, both traditional Celtic and modern.
Most often you’ll find singer songwriter duos but if you are lucky you may catch an impromptu bagpiper, or even a full piece band (pictured here “Beech Hill” performing at “The Annex” restuarant). The Legion often has a band on Saturday nights and a beer is less than $5. The sounds of Inverness are just as delightful as the sights.
5. Catch the Harness Racing
Every Sunday at 1pm from May to October the horses come to Inverness. In July and August you can also catch them on Wednesdays at 7pm. So grab a beer, place some bets and cheer on your picks at the Inverness Raceway.
For tips on making this thoroughly enjoyable, check out our article on “A Beginner’s Guide to the Inverness Raceway” and make sure you bring cash as it is a cash only event.
6. Get out on the Water
The Northumberland Straight plays host to whales, dolphins, seals, tuna, bald eagles, lobster and more. Book a sightseeing tour or a fishing charter or even a private lobster boil right on the water! Eagle Eye Outfitters operates right out of Inverness and can help you book the perfect East Coast adventure.
Best times for lobster are June / July and for whales, July-September.
Come for the Golf, Fall for the Town
Your trip will be much more memorable when you include some of the top 6 activities in Inverness into your schedule. Plus you’ll meet some pretty fantastic people along the way. Surely you are coming here for the golf, but we just know you’ll fall in love with the town. We also know you’ll enjoy everything more when you book your stay at Cabot Cottage.